For coffee aficionados, the quest for the perfect espresso is a never-ending journey. A crucial step in achieving that barista-quality cup at home is selecting the right espresso machine.
With a plethora of options available, navigating the market can be overwhelming, especially when seeking a blend of technology and tradition. Breville, a renowned brand in the coffee appliance world, offers a range of digital espresso machines designed to cater to various skill levels and preferences.
However, not all models are created equal. Finding the best breville espresso machine digital requires careful consideration of features, functionality, and overall performance.
Investing in the best breville espresso machine digital ensures both quality and value for your daily coffee ritual. This review aims to guide you through the key factors to consider, helping you make an informed decision and unlock the potential for exceptional espresso from the comfort of your own kitchen.
IN THIS ARTICLE
Top 10 Best Breville Espresso Machine Digital Compared
🏆 BEST OVERALL Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine BES870XL
- Integrated grinder provides fresh grounds on demand.
- Precise temperature control for optimal extraction.
- Steam wand allows for manual milk texturing.
- Comprehensive set of included accessories.
4.6/5
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🥈 2ND RUNNER UP Breville Bambino Espresso Machine BES450BSS
- Automatic steam wand simplifies milk texturing and provides consistent microfoam.
- Rapid 3-second heat-up time thanks to the ThermoJet system.
- Precise temperature control (PID) ensures optimal espresso extraction.
- Low-pressure pre-infusion for balanced flavor extraction.
4.5/5
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� BEST VALUE Breville Barista Express Impress Espresso Machine BES876BSS
- Intelligent dosing system simplifies coffee preparation.
- Assisted tamping provides consistent puck preparation.
- 25 grind settings offer flexibility for fine-tuning extraction.
- Precise temperature control ensures optimal coffee brewing.
4.3/5
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Breville Bambino Plus Espresso Machine BES500BSS
- Fast 3-second heat-up time.
- Precise temperature control for optimal extraction.
- Automatic microfoam milk texturing for latte art.
- Compact footprint ideal for smaller spaces.
4.6/5
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Breville Barista Pro Espresso Machine BES878BSS
- Integrated grinder for fresh espresso.
- Precise temperature control for optimal extraction.
- Fast heating system (ThermoJet).
- Powerful steam wand for milk texturing.
4.5/5
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Rechargeable Mini Coffee Scale with Timer
- Highly precise measurements (0.1g accuracy).
- Compact and portable design.
- Rechargeable battery with long standby time.
- Multiple units of measurement and timekeeping modes.
4.7/5
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Breville Oracle Jet Espresso Machine
- Integrated burr grinder with many grind settings
- Precise temperature control and fast heating
- Automatic milk frothing with texture control
- Pre-programmed settings including cold brew
4.4/5
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Breville RM-BES870XL Barista Express Espresso Machine
- Integrated grinder for fresh, on-demand coffee.
- Precise temperature control for optimal extraction.
- Manual steam wand for milk frothing and latte art.
- Includes all original accessories.
4.7/5
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Breville Barista Touch Impress Espresso Machine BES881BSS
- Fast heat-up time (3 seconds) with ThermoJet system.
- Intuitive touchscreen interface with customizable drink options.
- Assisted tamping system for consistent puck preparation.
- Integrated grinder with 30 settings for precise dose control.
4.6/5
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Breville Barista Touch Espresso Machine BES880BTR
- Integrated grinder for fresh espresso.
- Fast heat-up time with ThermoJet technology.
- Precise temperature control for optimal extraction.
- Automatic milk texturing for barista-quality foam.
4.7/5
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Detailed Reviews of the Best Breville Espresso Machine Digital
Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine BES870XL – Integrated grinder provides fresh grounds on demand.
The Breville Barista Express is an all-in-one espresso machine designed for home baristas who want to streamline the process from bean to cup. The integrated conical burr grinder offers dose control and grind size adjustment, catering to various bean types and roast levels. The machine boasts features like low-pressure pre-infusion and PID temperature control, aiming for optimal espresso extraction.
The steam wand allows for manual microfoam milk texturing, opening possibilities for latte art. The included accessories are comprehensive, providing everything needed to get started. While it offers a degree of control and convenience, the learning curve might be steep for beginners.
Overall, it’s a solid choice for those looking to elevate their home coffee experience.
Pros
- Integrated grinder provides fresh grounds on demand.
- Precise temperature control for optimal extraction.
- Steam wand allows for manual milk texturing.
- Comprehensive set of included accessories.
- Adjustable grind size and dose.
- Relatively compact all-in-one design.
Cons
- Learning curve may be steep for beginners.
- Requires regular cleaning and maintenance.
Breville Bambino Espresso Machine BES450BSS – Automatic steam wand simplifies milk texturing and provides consistent microfoam.
This espresso machine offers a range of features aimed at delivering barista-quality coffee at home. The 54mm portafilter, designed for 19 grams of coffee, promises full flavor extraction. The automatic steam wand is a significant selling point, offering hands-free microfoam production with adjustable temperature and texture settings.
The ThermoJet heating system boasts a rapid 3-second heat-up time, minimizing wait times. Low-pressure pre-infusion aims for even flavor extraction, and digital temperature control (PID) ensures precise water temperature for optimal espresso. The control panel offers intuitive operation with dedicated buttons for single or double shots, steam, and milk texture adjustments.
The machine operates at 1560 Watts and is covered by a 1-year limited warranty.
Pros
- Automatic steam wand simplifies milk texturing and provides consistent microfoam.
- Rapid 3-second heat-up time thanks to the ThermoJet system.
- Precise temperature control (PID) ensures optimal espresso extraction.
- Low-pressure pre-infusion for balanced flavor extraction.
- User-friendly control panel for easy operation.
Cons
- The 1-year limited warranty is relatively short compared to some competitors.
- 54mm portafilter might be limiting for users accustomed to larger portafilter sizes used in professional settings.
Breville Barista Express Impress Espresso Machine BES876BSS – Intelligent dosing system simplifies coffee preparation.
The Barista Express Impress aims to simplify the process of making espresso at home, targeting users who want a higher-quality coffee experience without the steep learning curve often associated with manual espresso machines. The ‘Impress puck system,’ incorporating intelligent dosing and assisted tamping, appears to automate some of the more challenging aspects of puck preparation. The 25 grind settings offer good flexibility in dialing in the desired extraction.
The Thermocoil heating system claims precise temperature control, which is essential for good espresso. The inclusion of a microfoam steam wand adds another layer of control for milk-based drinks. The bundled accessories seem fairly comprehensive, providing most of what a user would need to get started, however the water tank size may be a limitation for households where many coffees are made in one day.
Pros
- Intelligent dosing system simplifies coffee preparation.
- Assisted tamping provides consistent puck preparation.
- 25 grind settings offer flexibility for fine-tuning extraction.
- Precise temperature control ensures optimal coffee brewing.
- Microfoam steam wand allows for milk texturing.
- Comprehensive set of included accessories.
Cons
- 2L water tank may require frequent refills for heavy users.
- Complexity of the machine might still be intimidating for absolute beginners.
Breville Bambino Plus Espresso Machine BES500BSS – Fast 3-second heat-up time.
The Breville Bambino Plus is a compact espresso machine designed to bring cafe-quality coffee into your home. It boasts a rapid 3-second heat-up time thanks to its ThermoJet system, and digital temperature control (PID) aims for precise espresso extraction. The automatic steam wand allows for adjustable milk temperature and texture, assisting in creating latte art.
A 54mm portafilter holds 19 grams of coffee grounds, contributing to a balanced espresso flavor. The machine also includes automatic purging after steaming to maintain optimal temperature. Its compact footprint makes it a good choice for smaller kitchens.
Overall, the Bambino Plus seems to deliver a good experience for users looking for ease of use and convenience.
Pros
- Fast 3-second heat-up time.
- Precise temperature control for optimal extraction.
- Automatic microfoam milk texturing for latte art.
- Compact footprint ideal for smaller spaces.
- Automatic purge function for consistent temperature.
- Consistent and balanced espresso using the right amount of ground coffee (19 grams)
Cons
- While compact, espresso machines require regular maintenance.
- Limited to 110-120 Volts, so might not be suitable in some countries.
Breville Barista Pro Espresso Machine BES878BSS – Integrated grinder for fresh espresso.
The Breville Barista Pro is designed for home baristas seeking cafe-quality espresso. It offers a convenient all-in-one solution, integrating a grinder for a quick bean-to-espresso process. The machine boasts precise temperature control (PID) and low-pressure pre-infusion for optimal extraction.
The ThermoJet heating system allows for fast heat-up, and the steam wand enables milk texturing for latte art. The LCD interface simplifies operation, providing clear information. Included accessories such as filter baskets, a milk jug, and cleaning tools add value.
While offering numerous features for consistent espresso, the learning curve for mastering all settings may be a consideration for beginners. Overall, it’s a feature-rich espresso machine well-suited for those dedicated to honing their barista skills at home.
Pros
- Integrated grinder for fresh espresso.
- Precise temperature control for optimal extraction.
- Fast heating system (ThermoJet).
- Powerful steam wand for milk texturing.
- Intuitive LCD interface.
- Includes essential accessories.
Cons
- Potential learning curve for mastering all settings.
- Relatively large footprint may require significant counter space.
Rechargeable Mini Coffee Scale with Timer – Highly precise measurements (0.1g accuracy).
The Maestri House Espresso Scale is a compact and seemingly accurate digital scale designed for coffee enthusiasts, particularly those using espresso and pour-over methods. Its small size makes it easily portable and suitable for smaller workspaces. It features 0.1g precision, multiple units of measurement (g/oz/ml), and dual timekeeping modes (automatic and manual).
The built-in rechargeable battery offers a long standby time, and the USB-C charging is convenient. The sleek design, borosilicate glass surface, and detachable silicone pad contribute to its aesthetic appeal and ease of cleaning. A silent brewing mode is included to remove unwanted beeps.
Overall, it appears to be a well-featured and aesthetically pleasing tool for precision coffee brewing.
Pros
- Highly precise measurements (0.1g accuracy).
- Compact and portable design.
- Rechargeable battery with long standby time.
- Multiple units of measurement and timekeeping modes.
- Sleek and easy-to-clean design.
- Silent brewing mode for quiet operation.
Cons
- Relatively small weighing platform might be limiting for larger brewing setups.
- Range limited to 2000g might not be sufficient for all kitchen applications.
Breville Oracle Jet Espresso Machine – Integrated burr grinder with many grind settings
The product aims to bring professional-level espresso capabilities to the home user. It boasts features such as automatic grinding, dosing, and tamping with Baratza burrs, a ThermoJet heating system for rapid heat-up, and precise temperature control. The Auto MilQ function offers microfoam creation with customizable temperature and texture settings for various milk types.
The inclusion of pre-programmed settings, including cold brew and cold espresso options, adds to the convenience. The Barista Guidance feature helps to optimize espresso extraction. The auto queue system allows users to save time when preparing drinks.
Overall, it appears to offer a comprehensive and user-friendly experience for both beginner and experienced home baristas.
Pros
- Integrated burr grinder with many grind settings
- Precise temperature control and fast heating
- Automatic milk frothing with texture control
- Pre-programmed settings including cold brew
- Barista Guidance for extraction optimization
- Auto Queue function for streamlined workflow
Cons
- High price point may be a barrier for some
- Complex features may require a learning curve
Breville RM-BES870XL Barista Express Espresso Machine – Integrated grinder for fresh, on-demand coffee.
The Breville Barista Express (Remanufactured) offers a convenient all-in-one solution for home espresso enthusiasts. The integrated conical burr grinder allows for on-demand grinding, delivering freshly ground coffee directly to the portafilter. Low pressure pre-infusion and precise digital temperature control (PID) aim to ensure optimal extraction and balanced flavor.
The manual steam wand provides the opportunity to create microfoam milk for latte art. While the machine is remanufactured, it includes all original accessories and is covered by a 6-month warranty. However, potential buyers should be aware that as a refurbished unit, it may exhibit some signs of prior use.
The grind size dial offers intuitive control. Overall, it’s a solid option for those looking to streamline their espresso-making process.
Pros
- Integrated grinder for fresh, on-demand coffee.
- Precise temperature control for optimal extraction.
- Manual steam wand for milk frothing and latte art.
- Includes all original accessories.
- Covered by a 6-month Breville warranty.
- Intuitive grind size dial.
Cons
- As a remanufactured unit, it may show limited signs of wear.
- 6-month warranty is shorter than a new product warranty.
Breville Barista Touch Impress Espresso Machine BES881BSS – Fast heat-up time (3 seconds) with ThermoJet system.
The Barista Touch Impress aims to simplify the espresso-making process for home users with its guided interface and automated features. The machine heats up quickly thanks to the ThermoJet system, and the integrated grinder offers a wide range of settings. The assisted tamping system is a notable feature designed to create a consistent coffee puck.
Alternative milk settings are a plus for those who prefer non-dairy options. The touchscreen interface is intuitive, allowing users to easily navigate settings and customize drinks. The auto steam wand produces satisfactory microfoam, though some users may still prefer manual control for optimal texture.
Overall, the Barista Touch Impress is a user-friendly machine focused on automation to make barista-quality coffee accessible to home users.
Pros
- Fast heat-up time (3 seconds) with ThermoJet system.
- Intuitive touchscreen interface with customizable drink options.
- Assisted tamping system for consistent puck preparation.
- Integrated grinder with 30 settings for precise dose control.
- Alternative milk settings for optimal steaming.
- Step-by-step barista guidance with real-time feedback.
Cons
- High price point compared to manual espresso machines.
- Automation may limit the ability to fine-tune certain aspects of the brewing process for experienced users.
Breville Barista Touch Espresso Machine BES880BTR – Integrated grinder for fresh espresso.
The Breville Barista Touch aims to bring cafe-quality espresso into the home with its all-in-one design. The integrated grinder, coupled with the touch screen interface, simplifies the process of making espresso-based drinks. The machine heats up quickly thanks to the ThermoJet system, and the PID temperature control helps to ensure consistent extraction.
The automatic milk texturing is a standout feature, allowing users to create microfoam for lattes with relative ease. Customization is a key aspect, with programmable settings for both coffee and milk. While the machine offers a lot of features, it’s important to consider the footprint on your countertop and the learning curve associated with mastering all the settings.
Pros
- Integrated grinder for fresh espresso.
- Fast heat-up time with ThermoJet technology.
- Precise temperature control for optimal extraction.
- Automatic milk texturing for barista-quality foam.
- Customizable settings for personalized coffee drinks.
Cons
- Relatively large footprint.
- Price point might be high for some users.
Buying Guide: What to Look For in a Best Breville Espresso Machine Digital
Understanding Your Espresso Needs
Choosing the best Breville espresso machine (digital) requires understanding your priorities. Are you a beginner seeking ease of use, or an experienced barista wanting full control? Consider the volume of espresso you’ll be making, your budget, and the importance of features like an integrated grinder, automatic milk frothing, and a digital interface. For beginners, a more automated machine like the Bambino Plus might be ideal. Experienced users might prefer the Barista Express Impress or the Barista Pro, offering more control over grind size and tamping.
Key Features to Consider
Several features differentiate the best Breville espresso machine (digital) models. An integrated grinder ensures fresh, on-demand espresso. Precise temperature control (PID) is crucial for optimal extraction. Milk frothing capabilities range from manual wands to automatic systems. Look for adjustable grind settings, programmable shot volumes, and intuitive digital interfaces. Consider heat-up time, especially if you need espresso quickly. Automatic tamping systems, like those in the Barista Touch Impress, can simplify the process and ensure consistent results.
Types of Breville Espresso Machines
Breville offers a range of espresso machines, from entry-level models like the Bambino to advanced options like the Oracle Touch. The Barista Express models (BES870XL, Barista Express Impress) offer a balance of features and control. The Barista Pro provides a similar experience with a faster heating system and LCD interface. The Bambino series prioritizes speed and ease of use. The Oracle machines offer the most automation, including automatic grinding, tamping, and milk frothing. Selecting the best Breville espresso machine digital depends on your skill level and desired level of automation.
Budget Considerations
Breville espresso machines range in price, reflecting their features and capabilities. Entry-level models like the Bambino are more affordable. The Barista Express and Barista Pro fall into the mid-range. The Oracle series represents the high-end, offering the most advanced features. Consider your budget and prioritize the features that are most important to you. A refurbished model, like the Breville RM-BES870XL Barista Express, can be a cost-effective option if you’re looking for specific features within a limited budget.
Accessories and Maintenance
Most Breville espresso machines come with a set of essential accessories, including portafilters, tampers, and cleaning tools. Consider purchasing additional accessories like a milk frothing pitcher, knock box, and descaling solution. Regular cleaning and maintenance are crucial for prolonging the life of your machine and ensuring optimal performance. Descale your machine regularly, clean the portafilter after each use, and backflush the group head periodically.
Frequently Asked Questions about Best Breville Espresso Machine Digital
What is the difference between the Breville Barista Express and the Barista Pro?
The Barista Pro offers a faster heat-up time (ThermoJet system) and an LCD interface, compared to the Barista Express. Both have integrated grinders and precise temperature control, but the Pro’s intuitive display provides more feedback and control over the brewing process. The Barista Pro’s ThermoJet heating system also allows for faster transitions between brewing espresso and steaming milk. Ultimately, both are excellent choices, the Barista Pro offers a slightly more refined user experience for those seeking a best Breville espresso machine digital.
Is an integrated grinder necessary for a Breville espresso machine?
While not strictly necessary, an integrated grinder is highly recommended for the best Breville espresso machine digital experience. Freshly ground beans are crucial for optimal espresso extraction, resulting in a richer and more flavorful cup. Models like the Barista Express and Barista Pro offer this convenience, allowing you to grind beans on demand. If you prefer to use pre-ground coffee, the Bambino series is a good option, but be prepared to sacrifice some freshness.
How important is temperature control for espresso extraction?
Precise temperature control is essential for optimal espresso extraction. The best Breville espresso machine digital models utilize PID (Proportional-Integral-Derivative) temperature control to maintain a consistent water temperature throughout the brewing process. This ensures even extraction and prevents bitter or sour flavors. Without precise temperature control, it’s difficult to consistently produce high-quality espresso. The Bambino Plus and Barista Pro are prime examples, ensuring optimal espresso every time.
What is the advantage of an automatic milk frothing system?
Automatic milk frothing systems, like those found in the Bambino Plus and Oracle Touch, simplify the process of creating latte art-quality microfoam. These systems automatically texture the milk to the desired consistency, taking the guesswork out of milk frothing. While manual steam wands offer more control, automatic systems are ideal for beginners or those who prefer a more hands-off approach. They provide consistent results, saving time and effort.
How do I clean and maintain my Breville espresso machine?
Regular cleaning and maintenance are crucial for prolonging the life of your Breville espresso machine. Descale your machine regularly using a descaling solution. Clean the portafilter and brew head after each use. Backflush the group head periodically to remove coffee oils and residue. Refer to your machine’s user manual for specific cleaning instructions. Proper maintenance ensures optimal performance and prevents buildup that can affect the taste of your espresso.
What is the difference between the Breville Barista Touch and the Barista Touch Impress?
The Barista Touch Impress builds upon the Barista Touch with an added “Impress Puck System”. This system includes assisted tamping and intelligent dosing, taking the guesswork out of puck preparation. The Barista Touch Impress analyzes the grind size and dose to recommend adjustments, ensuring consistent and balanced espresso extraction. The Barista Touch offers a touch screen interface and customizable settings, but the Impress version adds intelligent automation for even easier espresso making.
Is the Breville Oracle Touch worth the investment?
The Breville Oracle Touch represents the high-end of Breville’s espresso machine lineup. It offers a fully automated experience, including automatic grinding, tamping, and milk frothing. The Oracle Touch is ideal for those who want barista-quality espresso without the learning curve. While it’s a significant investment, its convenience and consistent results make it worthwhile for serious espresso enthusiasts who value ease of use and automation.
What are the key features to look for in a mini coffee scale for espresso?
A mini coffee scale is an essential tool for dialing in your espresso shots. Look for a scale with high precision (0.1g accuracy), a built-in timer, and multiple units of measurement. A compact and portable design is also desirable. Features like a rechargeable battery and a sleek, easy-to-clean design are added bonuses. The Rechargeable Mini Coffee Scale with Timer mentioned is a great option.
What is the benefit of a fast heat-up time in an espresso machine?
A fast heat-up time, like the 3-second heat-up time offered by the Bambino series and the Barista Touch Impress, allows you to quickly brew espresso without having to wait for the machine to warm up. This is particularly convenient for busy mornings or when you need a quick caffeine fix. The ThermoJet heating system used in these machines ensures rapid heating and consistent temperature throughout the brewing process.
How many grind settings should an espresso machine have?
The number of grind settings can impact your ability to dial in the perfect espresso shot. The more grind settings available, the more control you have over the fineness of the grind. The Barista Touch Impress, with 30 grind settings, offers a high degree of flexibility. However, even machines with fewer settings can produce excellent espresso with careful adjustments. The best Breville espresso machine digital should have enough settings to meet your specific needs.
Conclusion: The Final Verdict
The Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine BES870XL offers a convenient and feature-rich way to enjoy specialty coffee at home. It’s a worthwhile investment for coffee enthusiasts seeking more control over their espresso, provided they are willing to invest the time to learn its nuances.
